Kamala Harris’ election would defy history. Just 1 sitting VP has been elected president since 1836

Vice President Kamala Harris is facing a challenging historical precedent as she begins her campaign for the presidency. Since 1836, only one sitting vice president, George H.W. Bush in 1988, has successfully been elected to the presidency. Other vice presidents, such as Richard Nixon, Hubert Humphrey, and Al Gore, attempted but failed in their bids, often due to issues like the popularity of the incumbent president and the nature of their relationships with them. Harris, who succeeded in consolidating Democratic support after President Joe Biden declined to seek reelection, faces a polarized political climate. Biden, who has included Harris in major decisions during his presidency, has pledged to support her campaign, though the strategy on how to best utilize his influence is still being determined. Harris’ campaign marks a significant moment in U.S. history, as she seeks to overcome the historical challenges faced by sitting vice presidents running for president.

Source: AP News